Bid to tackle 'appalling' housing

Rhyl West is the most deprived area in Wales

Labour politicians have urged Denbighshire council to tackle the "appalling condition" of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in Rhyl.

In a joint statement, Chris Ruane MP, Anne Jones AM and county councillors said the 650 HMOs such as bedsits had a "negative impact" on the seaside town.

The politicians say they have devised an action plan to tackle the issue.

The council said it took a "tough stance" on anyone who operated low-standard accommodation.

There are several recognised definitions for an HMO, including a house or flat which is let to three or more tenants forming at least two households who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet.

The health and safety of tenants living in private rented accommodation is non-negotiable Denbighshire council

The group want the council to adopt its plan, which includes proposals to increase the number of officers and enforcement officials dealing with HMOs.

Mr Ruane - who has also just been appointed by the Department for Work and Pensions to head up a review of employment in seaside towns - said: "Tackling HMOs should be a top priority for Denbighshire County Council .

"The standard of accommodation in some of them is appalling and it needs to be dealt with.

"HMOs' impact on Rhyl and Denbighshire as a whole is huge, in particular on health, crime, education and social service budgets.

"They also have a negative impact on the image of Rhyl."

The council said it was "proud of the fact that it takes such a tough stance against any landlord who fails to comply with housing regulations".

In a statement, the council said four landlords had been taken to court during the last year.

It added that "health and safety of tenants living in private rented accommodation is non-negotiable," and it would not hesitate to prosecute any landlord who failed to adhere to health and safety legislation.